What will happen to them when I’m no longer here…
If you’re reading this, you likely (a) have companion animals who share your home and life; and (b) consider them to be family members. That’s why it’s crucial to plan ahead for the time you’re no longer able to care for them.
Some sad stories
Here’s why it’s important to plan ahead. We’ve heard about these situations from shelters and from attorneys.
Case #1: Nursing Home Mixup
A woman could no longer remain in her home due to old age and illness. Her daughter arranged for a nursing home and told the woman she could not take her dog. Reluctantly, the woman surrendered her dog. When she got to the nursing home, she realized that the dog could have accompanied her, but it was too late. Apparently the daughter did not recognize the bond between her mother and the animal, and thought it was easier to not deal with the dog during the transition.
Case #2: Orphaned Cats
Not too long ago, a gentleman passed away suddenly. He had lived alone with his cats, and his only family was a brother from out of state. When the brother came to town to take care of the man’s affairs, he was surprised to find that there were several cats. He looked for help with the cats, and contacted a local shelter. Not being familiar with the area, and pressed for time, the brother did not realize that the shelter he had called on to remove his brother’s beloved pets, was a high kill shelter. In addition, these poor kitties had the misfortune of losing their loving caregiver at a time of year when shelters and rescues were particularly overwhelmed. Some of the cats were seniors, and a couple of them appeared to have some health issues. We know that at least some of them were euthanized upon arrival at the shelter. It’s very possible that this was the fate of all of them.
Case #3: URGENT! PLACEMENT NEEDED!!
So read a recent Facebook post, accompanied by pictures: There are 10 cats needing emergency placement from the hoarding situation. We are out of time. These babies are all very well socialized with other cats, dogs and kids. Super sweet babies! Owner passed away and the home is in foreclosure. Animal control gave them until the ninth, which is today. So far, over half the cats have been placed. Contact me if you can help! Only one cat has been fixed and nobody is UTD on vaccines.
Protect Your Pet’s Future: They’re Depending on You
AFA can help! Rebecca Wrock, probate attorney and AFA’s Vice President, will present a free seminar, hosted by All About Animals Rescue. Her presentation will focus on best practices and current options to protect and provide for pets. Join Rebecca on Sunday, August 19, from 1 to 2:30PM.
Free, but RSVP to learn@allaboutanimalsrescue.org